ABOUT
The Virginia Leads Innovation Network (formerly known as the Virginia Learners Innovation Network) is composed of annual cohorts of Lead Innovation Teams from school divisions in Virginia. Each cohort consists of teams from up to 35 divisions. The Network connects educational innovators who purposely work together to identify, use, and share strategies and actions designed to implement the Profile of a Virginia Graduate. Teams meet during the cohort cycle in Institutes designed to spark ideas and actions for local innovation initiatives. Teams also participate in a coaching model designed to support implementation of local innovation initiatives focused on three outcomes: expanding instructional use of deeper learning strategies, increasing equity so all learners participate in rich, challenging learning experiences, and implementing actions to fully and actively engage all learners through multiple pathways leading to high school graduation. The Profile of a Virginia Graduate provides local school communities with a frame of competencies that students should develop as they master the Virginia Standards of Learning and work through division curricula. In the Network, Lead Innovation Teams research and develop innovative approaches designed to ensure that all learners develop complex competencies essential to long-term success in homes, communities, and the workforce. As teams determine the effectiveness of innovations, they share artifacts, media, and “how to” information through face-to-face and virtual communication across the Commonwealth. The Network is a conduit for solutions to challenges, leveraging resources across divisions, and connecting educational communities in Virginia and beyond.

Impact of VaLIN 5.0
In 2023-2024, VaLIN Cohort 5.0 incorporated more participant choice and voice than ever before. This implementation model established a strong foundation for division teams to engage with fellow Network participants within goal-aligned Communities of Practice and provided personalized pathways to support current and aspiring principals, teacher leaders, and central staff in developing their instructional leadership capacity.

For the full impact report, click the link below.
Impact Report from VaLIN 5.0

VaLIN 6.0
The upcoming VaLIN 6.0 Cohort, now referred to as the VaLIN HS Redesign Cohort, is a transformative initiative to modernize high school education across Virginia. This cohort will use an action research design driven by Inquiry Cycles, where teams will engage in continuous improvement through structured phases: Plan, Do, Assess, and Act. Grounded in improvement science, implementation science, and design thinking, participating school divisions will analyze existing conditions, test innovative strategies, and refine educational models to ensure sustainable change. These methodologies will guide divisions in identifying barriers, aligning curriculum and assessment with competency-based learning (CBL), and fostering flexible learning models that enhance student engagement. The overarching outcomes of VaLIN HS Redesign include the development of a statewide CBL framework, a Framework for Quality Learning, and a comprehensive program evaluation report, all of which aim to drive systemic transformation and prepare students for diverse postsecondary pathways, including enrollment, enlistment, and employment.

This cohort will launch in Summer 2025 and continue through June 2027. Stay tuned for upcoming details and application opportunities!